Early Years Apprentice

Start your career in childcare and make a difference every day. Kingsley Explorers Nursery is looking for a caring, enthusiastic and motivated individual to join us as an Early Years Apprentice. This is an exciting opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining a recognised Early Years qualification and valuable hands-on experience in a high-quality nursery environment. If you are passionate about working with children and want to build a rewarding career in Early Years education, we would love to hear from you.

Why Join Kingsley Explorers?

• You will be supported by experienced practitioners who will help you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to become an outstanding Early Years professional.
• Earn while you learn through a recognised Early Years apprenticeship programme.
• Workplace-based training - the majority of your learning will take place within the nursery, allowing you to develop practical skills in a real Early Years setting.
• Support and mentoring from experienced Early Years professionals.
• A welcoming, friendly and nurturing working environment.
• The opportunity to progress into a long-term career in childcare and education.
• A chance to be part of a brand-new and exciting nursery community.

About the Role

As an Early Years Apprentice, you will support the delivery of high-quality care and education for children aged 0-5 whilst working towards a recognised Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification. You will learn how to support children's learning, development and wellbeing in line with the EYFS framework. Applicants should clearly indicate on their application which level they are more suited to and wish to work towards.

You will:

• Support engaging play-based learning activities.
• Assist with observing and recording children's development.
• Help create a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment.
• Work alongside qualified practitioners to develop your skills and experience.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents and colleagues.
• Learn about safeguarding, health and safety, and best practice in Early Years education.

Workplace-Based Learning

Unlike traditional college-based courses, the majority of your apprenticeship training will be delivered within the nursery. You will learn through practical experience, supported by qualified colleagues and your training provider. Assessments, reviews and learning activities will take place primarily in the workplace, enabling you to develop valuable skills whilst working directly with children.

Pay and Apprenticeship Salary

We pay in line with the National Minimum Wage rates applicable to apprentices and their age. Current rates are:

• £8.00 per hour for apprentices under age 19, and those aged 19+ in the first year of their apprenticeship.
• £10.85 per hour for apprentices aged 19+ who have completed the first year of their apprenticeship.
• £12.71 per hour for apprentices aged 21 and over.

As your apprenticeship progresses, your pay will increase in line with the relevant statutory rates for your age and apprenticeship status.

Who We're Looking For

You don't need previous nursery experience, but you will need:

• A genuine interest in working with young children.
• A caring, patient and nurturing approach.
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Reliability, professionalism and enthusiasm.
• GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent), or a willingness to work towards them if required.
• Experience of working with children, whether through volunteering, family responsibilities or previous employment, would be an advantage but is not essential.

Begin your Early Years journey with us and help inspire a love of learning from the very start. Please click on the apply now button for more information on the role and to apply.